Q. Do
I need an agent?
A. There are many answers to
this question. It's almost as open ended as asking, what does it cost to publish
a book? If your goal is to self publish, you do not need an agent. If you are
looking toward pitching book ideas to publishers, or selling your rights to your
work, an agent (or at least a lawyer experienced in this field) may be a good
idea.

Q.
Where can I find out if my work is suitable for publication?
A. There are as many answers
to that question as there are publications. The short answer is to look within
yourself. Here are some other answers:

If you don't
believe in your writing, it's time to improve it - groups, classes, friends can
all help.

If you wish to be
published somewhere that buys or accepts work, that publication has the answer.

Please realize
that there is no "big brother" or regulatory organization that you must seek
permission from to publish your original work.

If your work
comes from other published work, you will need copyright release from the
copyright holder.